Is The Devil by the Tail Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1969)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 1969, The Devil by the Tail represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Comedy category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into In this comedy, a run-down hotel drums up customers by sabotaging passing cars. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Comedy are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "In this comedy, a run-down hotel drums up customers by sabotaging passing cars. The stuck motorists are then obliged to stay. Unfortunately, one of the sabotaged cars belongs to a bank robber. The hotel staff wants the robber out, but they also want to keep his ill-gotten money."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The ensemble, led by Yves Montand, delivers a professional and engaging performance that satisfies the requirements of the Comedy genre. While it may not reinvent the wheel, the commitment to the material is evident in every frame.

The direction by Philippe de Broca is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 90 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is The Devil by the Tail truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Comedy, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 6.1/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, The Devil by the Tail explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1969 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Philippe de Broca respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, The Devil by the Tail serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Yves Montand or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, The Devil by the Tail is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.